Closure system for a dishwashing appliance and associated apparatus

ABSTRACT

A closure system for a dishwasher and associated apparatus is provided. A door is pivotably engaged with a tub, and defines a latch pocket, configured as a grasping member, having a latch aperture in communication therewith and extending therethrough to the tub. A latch actuation member is received by the latch pocket, and a latch device engaged therewith extends through the latch aperture to releasably secure the door to the tub, the securement being releasable by actuation of the latch actuation member. A pull-latch is receivable by the latch aperture, in place of and interchangeably with the latch device and latch actuation member, and releasably secures the door to the tub, the securement being releasable by exertion of an outward force on the grasping member. A latch pocket insert member operably engages the latch pocket to separate the latch aperture therefrom, when the pull-latch is received by the latch aperture.

BACKGROUND

1. Field of the Invention

Embodiments of the present invention relate to dishwashers and, moreparticularly, to a closure system for a dishwashing appliance andassociated apparatus.

2. Description of Related Art

A dishwasher typically includes a tub portion for receiving dishware tobe washed, wherein the tub portion defines a front or forward openinghaving a door member pivotably engaged therewith for sealing theopening. The door member is often hinged at the lower end thereof suchthat the upper end of the door member can be pivoted downward so as topermit access to the interior of the tub. The door member typicallyemploys a graspable handle about the upper end thereof for pivoting thedoor member about the hinge. A latch mechanism may be located proximatethe upper end of the door member, in some instances, in association withthe handle, for securing the free end of the door member to the tubportion when the door member is in the closed position with respect tothe front opening.

In some instances, a particular basic structure of a dishwasher may beimplemented in a dishwasher platform or series, wherein the particularplatform or series may include a plurality of individual dishwashermodels differing, for example, according to aesthetic or functionalfeatures. That is, a basic dishwasher platform may include variousmodels differentiated by varying the configuration of certain functionalcomponents such as, for example, control panels, detergent dispensers,and wiring, or certain aesthetic aspects such as, for instance, colorand/or material comprising the outer door panels.

One particular example of model differentiation on a single dishwasherplatform may involve the style of the handle used to open/close the doormember. In some instances, varying the handle style/configuration mayalso require that the latch mechanism engaged between the door memberand the tub portion be varied, as well. One style of handle may includea spring-loaded, movable (i.e., pivotable) release latch mechanismmounted to the door. In such instances, the user may be required topivot the release latch lever/mechanism (i.e. squeeze the lever) torelease the latch and open the door. An alternate style of handle mayinvolve a pull-type latch that operates, for instance, as afriction-latch or a magnetic-latch, and does not require a release latchlever/mechanism as previously discussed.

A variety of handle styles may sometimes necessitate a significantnumber of different parts to be used for each style of handle (andpossibly the corresponding door member). Increased component complexityand component differentiation (i.e., the model-specific particular partsfor each different model) may undesirably lead to increasedmanufacturing costs, and inventory and service complexities. As such,there exists a need for a handle and latch system for a dishwasherhaving an increased number of interchangeable/common components that maybe used in various models of a single platform.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The above and other needs are met by the present invention which, in oneembodiment, provides a dishwashing appliance, comprising a tub portiondefining an opening, and a door member configured to pivotably engagethe tub portion so as to be movable between an open position and aclosed position with respect thereto. The door member covers saidopening in the closed position, and defines a latch pocket having alatch aperture in communication therewith, wherein the latch apertureextends from the latch pocket and through the door member to the tubportion. The latch pocket is configured as a grasping member forpivoting the door member from the closed position. A latch actuationmember is operably engaged with a latch device, wherein the latchactuation member is configured to be received by the latch pocket, andthe latch device is configured to extend through the latch aperture soas to be capable of operably engaging the tub portion to releasablysecure the door member to the tub portion when the door member is in theclosed position. The securement between the latch device and the tubportion is releasable by selective actuation of the latch actuationmember. A pull-latch is configured to be received by the latch aperture,in place of and interchangeably with the latch device and associatedlatch actuation member, wherein the pull-latch is capable of operablyengaging the tub portion to releasably secure the door member to the tubportion when the door member is in the closed position. The securementbetween the pull-latch and the tub portion is releasable by selectiveexertion of an outward force on the grasping member. A latch pocketinsert member is configured to operably engage the latch pocket so as toseparate the latch pocket from the latch aperture, when the pull-latchis received by the latch aperture.

Another aspect of the present invention comprises a closure systemadapted to be operable between a door member and a tub portion of adishwashing appliance, wherein the tub portion defines an opening, andthe door member is adapted to pivotably engage the tub portion so as tobe movable between an open position and a closed position with respectthereto. The door member covers said opening in the closed position, anddefines a latch pocket having a latch aperture in communicationtherewith. The latch aperture extends from the latch pocket and throughthe door member to the tub portion, wherein the latch pocket is adaptedas a grasping member for pivoting the door member from the closedposition. The closure system comprises a latch actuation member operablyengaged with a latch device, wherein the latch actuation member isconfigured to be received by the latch pocket, and the latch device isconfigured to extend through the latch aperture so as to be capable ofoperably engaging the tub portion to releasably secure the door memberto the tub portion when the door member is in the closed position. Thesecurement between the latch device and the tub portion is releasable byselective actuation of the latch actuation member. A pull-latch isconfigured to be received by the latch aperture, in place of andinterchangeably with the latch device and associated latch actuationmember, wherein the pull-latch is capable of operably engaging the tubportion to releasably secure the door member to the tub portion when thedoor member is in the closed position. The securement between thepull-latch and the tub portion is releasable by selective exertion of anoutward force on the grasping member. A latch pocket insert member isconfigured to operably engage the latch pocket so as to separate thelatch pocket from the latch aperture, when the pull-latch is received bythe latch aperture.

Aspects of the present invention thus provide significant advantages asfurther detailed herein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING(S)

Having thus described the invention in general terms, reference will nowbe made to the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn toscale, and wherein:

FIGS. 1 and 2 schematically illustrate one aspect of a dishwasher havinga door member capable of implementing a closure system, according to oneembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 3 schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of a dishwasherimplementing a first aspect of a closure system, according to oneembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4 schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of a dishwashercapable of implementing a closure system, according to an embodiment ofthe present invention;

FIG. 5 schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of a dishwasherimplementing a second aspect of a closure system, according to oneembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 6 is a schematic perspective view of a dishwasher implementing asecond aspect of a closure system, according to the embodiment of thepresent invention shown in FIG.5;

FIG. 7 schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of a dishwasherimplementing another aspect of a closure system, according to oneembodiment of the present invention, with respect to a proximity sensor;and

FIG. 8 schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of a dishwasherimplementing another aspect of a closure system, according to oneembodiment of the present invention, with respect to a contact switchdevice.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Exemplary embodiments of the present invention now will be describedmore fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, inwhich some, but not all embodiments of the invention are shown. Indeed,the invention may be embodied in many different forms and should not beconstrued as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, theseembodiments are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicablelegal requirements. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout.

Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to a closuresystem, including, for example, a handle and latch provision, for adishwashing appliance such as a dishwasher. While the embodimentsdisclosed herein are generally directed to a dishwasher, one skilled inthe art will appreciate that such a closure system of the disclosed orsimilar configurations may be utilized in any number of applicationssuch as, for example, in many different household appliances.

FIGS. 1 and 2 schematically illustrate a dishwashing appliance,generally indicated by the numeral 50. Such a dishwashing appliance 50may include a door member 100 pivotably engaged with an associated tubportion 110 about respective lower ends thereof. The door member 100 isthus movable between an open position and a closed position with respectto the tub portion 110, which defines a front or forward opening. Thedoor member 100, in the closed position, is further configured to coverand close the forward opening so as to, for example, contain wash watercirculated therein for cleaning dishware. Accordingly, the door member100 should be capable of being selectively maintained in a closedposition with respect to the tub portion 110 so as to prevent leakage ofthe wash water from the tub portion 110. Typically, such selectivesecurement/closure of the door member 100 is accomplished using, forexample, a handle and/or latch mechanism. However, as previouslydiscussed, it may sometimes be desirable to use a basic dishwasherconfiguration or “platform” and differentiate various models based uponthat single platform by the offered features or aspects associated witheach model.

FIG. 1 thus illustrates one exemplary model of a dishwasher belonging toa particular platform. This particular model may include, for example,one aspect of a closure system 300 for selectively maintaining the doormember 100 in a closed position with respect to the tub portion 110. Onesuch aspect of a closure system 300 may comprise a latch device 320(see, e.g., FIG. 3) and associated latch actuation member 108. The latchdevice 320 may be operably engaged with one of the door member 100 andthe tub portion 110, and configured to selectively engage the other ofthe door member 100 and the tub portion 110 so as to releasably securethe two components together in the closed position. The door member 100,in some instances, may be comprised of, for example, the door member100, itself, as well as a console member 400 disposed about an upper endof the door member 100. As such, the latch actuation member 108/latchdevice 320 may be engaged with the door member 100 and/or the consolemember 400, as will be appreciated by one skilled in the art. The latchactuation member 108 may be configured to operably engage the latchdevice 320 so as to at least allow the latch actuation member 108 torelease the securement effected by the latch device 320, and allow thedoor member 100 to be pivoted from the close position with respect tothe tub portion 110.

In order to mount such an aspect of a closure system 300, the doormember 100 may define a latch pocket 102, as shown in FIG. 3. Such alatch pocket 102 may be accessible from outside the tub portion 110(i.e., from the outside of the door member 100) and, in some instances,may be configured as a graspable member capable of being grasped by auser. In this manner, the user grasping the graspable member may be ableto pivot the door member 100 from the closed position (and toward theopen position) by exerting a outwardly-directed force (with respect tothe tub portion 110) thereto. In order to facilitate such a function,the latch pocket 102 may be defined, for example, by the door member100, itself and/or by a console member 400 disposed about an upper endof the door member 100. Further, the latch pocket 102 may be mediallydisposed with respect to the lateral direction of the door member100/console member 400 (see, e.g., FIGS. 1 and 2).

The latch pocket 102 may be further configured to receive the latchactuation member 108 such that the latch actuation member 108 isaccessible and actuatable from externally of the door member 100 (i.e.,outside the tub portion 110). Since the latch device 320 is generallyconfigured to be in communication with the latch actuation member 108,the latch device 320 is operably engaged with one of the door member 100and the tub portion 110 so as to form a releasable securementtherebetween. In one instance, the latch device 320 is operably engagedwith the door member 100 in or about a latch aperture 340, wherein thelatch aperture 340 is in communication with and extends from the latchpocket 102, through the door member 100 (or component thereof, such as,for example, the console assembly 400), and toward the tub portion 110.Accordingly, the latch device 320 may be mounted in or otherwiseassociated with the latch aperture 340 so as to be in communication withthe latch actuation member 108 disposed in or otherwise associated withthe latch pocket 102. In this configuration, the latch actuation member108 and the latch device 320 combine to extend from the latch pocket102, and through latch aperture 340 (through the door member 100 orcomponent thereof), so as to be capable of engaging the tub portion 110for forming the releasable securement therebetween.

In one example, the latch actuation member 108 may comprise, forexample, a biased (i.e., spring-loaded) movable release lever or othersuitable mechanism capable of actuating/de-actuating the latch device320 in communication therewith. More particularly, the latch actuationmember 108 may be pivotable about a first axis 310, for instance, inconjunction with a user grasping the latch actuation member 108 and thegraspable member associated with the latch pocket 102. In a simplifiedinstance, the latch device 320 may further comprise a biased latchmember 330 pivotable about a second axis 315, wherein the latch member330 is configured to be normally-biased to engage the tub portion 110(or latch receiving member associated therewith) and form the releasablesecurement therebetween, when the door member 100 is in the closedposition. As such, the latch actuation member 108 is configured to pivotcounterclockwise (with respect to the orientation shown in FIG. 3) aboutthe first axis 310, when grasped by the user. In turn, the latchactuation member 108 urges the latch member 330 to pivotcounterclockwise (with respect to the orientation shown in FIG. 3)against the normal biasing thereof with respect to the tub portion 110.In such an instance, the latch member 330 is released from securementwith the tub portion 110, allowing the door member 100 to be pivotedfrom the closed position. One skilled in the art will appreciate,however, that many different configurations of the disclosed latchactuation member 108/latch device 320 may be implemented. For example,the disclosed latch actuation member 108/latch device 320 may compriseany suitable mechanical linkage engaged between or with the latchactuation member 108/latch device 320.

With respect to this disclosed latch actuation member 108/latch device320 embodiment, a user of the dishwasher may be able to insert a handinto the latch pocket 102 and squeeze the latch actuation member 108 torelease the securement effected by the latch device 320, thus allowingthe door member 100 to be pivoted away from the tub portion 110 towardthe open position in response to a pulling motion (i.e., outwardly ofthe tub portion 110). However, as previously discussed, it may sometimesbe desirable for a basic dishwasher configuration or platform to serveas the basis for a variety of different, possibly seriated, dishwashermodels based on that platform. For example, the disclosed latchactuation member 108/latch device 320 embodiment may represent onedishwasher model of a particular platform, though another model of thatplatform may be equipped with a simple pull-type latch, such as africtionally-operable latch, a magnetically-operable latch, or anelectromechanically-operable latch (or combinations thereof). Depending,for example, on other features offered with each model, the modelimplementing the pull-type latch may be a “higher” model or a “lower”model than the model implementing the disclosed latch actuation member108/latch device 320. For instance, such models may include differentfront (appearance) panels 106 and/or different control panels 104(differing, for example, in the number of different wash cycles orsettings). The front panel 106 may be associated with the door member100, while the control panel 104 may be associated with the consolemember 400. However, to achieve or otherwise facilitate aspects of thepresent invention by maximizing the number of components common to thedifferent models across a single platform, it may be desirable for thedifferent models to utilize as many of the same components (i.e., thedoor member 100 and/or the console member 400) as possible, such as thecomponents defining the latch pocket 102 and/or the latch aperture 340.

As shown in FIG. 4, aspects of the present invention implementing apull-type latch 150, such as a frictionally-operable latch, amagnetically-operable latch, or an electromechanically-operable latch,may not require a mechanical latch actuation member 108, as previouslydiscussed. Instead, the door assembly 100 is maintained in the latchedposition through friction, a magnetic coupling, or an electromechanicalarrangement, respectively, between the door member 100 and the tubportion 110. As such, there may not be any component extending throughlatch pocket portion of the latch aperture 340 in models implementing apull-type latch. In such instances, the latch pocket 102 may simply begrasped by a user, and a force outwardly of the tub portion 110 appliedthereto, in order to open the door member 100 (i.e., for africtionally-operable latch or a magnetically-operable latch). In modelsimplementing a magnetically-operable latch or anelectromagnetically-operable latch, the dishwasher may further comprisean associated latch actuator associated with the door member 100, tubportion 110, console member 400 and/or control panel 104, asappropriate, for providing a suitable actuation signal forsecuring/unsecuring the latch. For example, anelectromechanically-operable latch (i.e., a solenoid-type latch) may beoperably engaged with the control panel 104 and configured to preventthe door member 100 from being opened while the dishwasher is inoperation.

As previously discussed, aspects of the present invention implementing apull-type latch 150, such as a frictionally-operable latch, amagnetically-operable latch, or an electromechanically-operable latch,may not require a mechanical latch actuation member 108 and, as such,there may not be any component extending through the latch pocketportion of the latch aperture 340 in models implementing a pull-typelatch, as shown in FIG. 4. Accordingly, as shown in FIG. 4, the presenceof the latch pocket 102 and the open/unoccupied latch aperture 340 mayimpart an “unfinished,” “unrefined,” or otherwise “crude” feel (i.e.,poor aesthetics, or not ergonomically favorable) to particular modelsimplementing a pull-type latch. In some instances, the open latch pocketportion of the latch aperture 340 may present a risk of injury, forexample, to the hand/finger(s) of a small child entering the latchpocket 102. As such, since it may remain desirable for the samecomponent(s) defining the latch pocket 102/latch aperture 340 to be usedacross different models, certain aspects of the present invention mayimplement a latch pocket insert member 120 in models comprising apull-type latch, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6. More particularly, anappropriate latch pocket insert member 120 may be engaged with the latchpocket 102 so as to substantially close the latch aperture 340. That is,the latch pocket insert member 120 may be configured to close theportion of the latch pocket 102 leading to, in communication with, ordefining the latch aperture 340, so as to enclose the interior of thelatch pocket 102 and prevent any mechanical extension (i.e., ofhand/finger(s)) therethrough. In some instances, the latch pocket insertmember 120 may appropriately contoured such that, upon engagement withthe patch pocket 102, the latch pocket insert member 120 may cooperatewith the latch pocket to provide a substantially contiguous graspingreceptacle (see, e.g., FIG. 6). Accordingly, the latch pocket insertmember 120 may provide an aesthetic enhancement of the modelsimplementing a pull-type latch by providing a desirable and consistenttactile feel of the latch pocket 102 by providing a smooth, comfortablecontiguous surface 122 (see, e.g., FIGS. 7 and 8) for the user to grasp(with less risk of injury) when opening the door member 100.

The latch pocket insert member 120 may be configured, in some aspects,to removably engage the latch pocket 102. For example, a first portionof a securement mechanism may be operably engaged with the door member100 and/or console member 400 about the latch pocket 102, and a secondportion of the securement mechanism may be operably engaged with thelatch pocket insert member 120, wherein the first and second portions ofthe securement mechanism are complementarily configured so as to securethe latch pocket insert member 120 to the latch pocket 102 uponengagement therebetween. For example, as shown in FIG. 6, snap-typefasteners or tabs 130 may be associated with either or both of the latchpocket insert member 120 and the latch pocket 102, or a combinationthereof, as will be appreciated by one skilled in the art. FIG. 6illustrates one particular example of a latch pocket insert member 120engaged with the latch pocket 102 through such a securement mechanism asviewed from a perspective outwardly of the tub portion 110 (i.e., fromthe tub portion side of the door member 100). In such instances, tabs130 may secure the latch pocket insert member 120 to the latch pocket102 and/or portions of the door member 100, console member 400, and/orcontrol panel 104. Aspects implementing such tabs may allow the latchpocket insert member 120 to be removable, as desired, such that a modelimplementing a pull-type latch could possibly be converted to a modelimplementing a latch actuation member 108/latch device 320 (or viceversa). In other aspects, the latch pocket insert member 120 may also beconfigured to be engaged with the latch pocket 102 in other manners suchas, for example, using conventional fasteners such as screws, springclips, an adhesive, or through ultrasonic welding, or combinationsthereof.

In another example, as shown in FIG. 7, a magnetically-operable latch oran electromagnetically-operable latch may have a proximity sensor 124associated therewith (i.e., engaged with the latch pocket insert member120) which senses the presence of a user's hand grasping the latchpocket 102 and thus, if appropriate (i.e., if the dishwasher is not inoperation) releases the securement between the door member 100 and thetub member 110, accordingly. In such instances, the latch may comprise asolenoid, whereby, if the dishwasher is in operation when the proximitysensor 124 senses a user's hand within the latch pocket 102, thesolenoid may be directed to remain in the secured position so as toprevent the door member 100 from being opened. Alternatively, theproximity sensor 124 may signal the control panel 104 to stop theoperation of the dishwasher (and take the necessary steps to allow thedoor member 100 to be opened, such as, for instance, draining the waterwithin the tub portion 110) before releasing the solenoid from thesecured position to allow the user to open the door member 100. In stillanother aspect, as shown in FIG. 8, a switch device 126, such as a “pushbutton,” may be implemented in place of the proximity sensor 124, forexample, in engagement with the latch pocket insert member 120, andfunction similarly thereto.

By implementing a latch pocket 102/latch pocket insert member 120system, as disclosed herein, the aforementioned latch mechanisms may beinterchangeably incorporated in different models of the same basicdishwasher platform, thus providing greater commonality of thecomponents used across those models. The greater component commonalitymay advantageously and desirably facilitate, for example, ease ofassembly and lower manufacturing costs (i.e., different models of thesame platform could be assembled on the same assembly line), as well asreduced inventory requirements and costs.

Many modifications and other embodiments of the inventions set forthherein will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which theseinventions pertain having the benefit of the teachings presented in theforegoing descriptions and the associated drawings. For example, in someembodiments the latch pocket insert may be made of plastic, composite,metal, or a combination of materials. A motion detection switch may beused in place of the proximity switch disclosed above. Therefore, it isto be understood that the inventions are not to be limited to thespecific embodiments disclosed and that modifications and otherembodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appendedclaims. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in ageneric and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.

1. A dishwashing appliance, comprising: a tub portion defining anopening; a door member configured to pivotably engage the tub portion soas to be movable between an open position and a closed position withrespect thereto, the door member covering said opening in the closedposition, and defining a latch pocket having a latch aperture incommunication therewith, the latch aperture extending from the latchpocket and through the door member to the tub portion, the latch pocketbeing configured as a grasping member for pivoting the door member fromthe closed position; a latch actuation member operably engaged with alatch device, the latch actuation member being configured to be receivedby the latch pocket, and the latch device being configured to extendthrough the latch aperture so as to be capable of operably engaging thetub portion to releasably secure the door member to the tub portion whenthe door member is in the closed position, the securement between thelatch device and the tub portion being releasable by selective actuationof the latch actuation member; a pull-latch configured to be received bythe latch aperture, in place of and interchangeably with the latchdevice and associated latch actuation member, the pull-latch beingcapable of operably engaging the tub portion to releasably secure thedoor member to the tub portion when the door member is in the closedposition, the securement between the pull-latch and the tub portionbeing releasable by selective exertion of an outward force on thegrasping member; and a latch pocket insert member configured to operablyengage the latch pocket so as to separate the latch pocket from thelatch aperture, when the pull-latch is received by the latch aperture.2. A dishwashing appliance according to claim 1, further comprising afirst portion of a securement mechanism operably engaged with the doormember about the latch pocket and a second portion of the securementmechanism operably engaged with the latch pocket insert member, thefirst and second portions of the securement mechanism beingcomplementarily configured so as to secure the latch pocket insertmember to the latch pocket upon engagement therebetween.
 3. Adishwashing appliance according to claim 2, wherein one of the first andsecond portions of the securement mechanism comprises a tab, and theother of the first and second portions of the engagement mechanismcomprises a securing flange, the tab and securing flange beingconfigured to interact in an interference fit for securing the latchpocket insert member to the latch pocket upon engagement therebetween.4. A dishwashing appliance according to claim 1, further comprising anadhesive material disposed between the latch pocket insert member andthe latch pocket, for securing the latch pocket insert member to thelatch pocket upon engagement therebetween.
 5. A dishwashing applianceaccording to claim 1, further comprising at least one mechanicalfastener configured to operably engage and secure the latch pocketinsert member to the latch pocket upon engagement therebetween.
 6. Adishwashing appliance according to claim 1, wherein the latch pocketinsert member is configured to be secured to the latch pocket by a weldtherebetween.
 7. A dishwashing appliance according to claim 1, furthercomprising a proximity sensor operably engaged with one of the doormember about the latch pocket, and the latch pocket insert member, theproximity sensor being configured to sense grasping of the graspingmember and to send a corresponding signal to at least one operationalcomponent in response thereto.
 8. A dishwashing appliance according toclaim 1, further comprising a switch device operably engaged with one ofthe door member about the latch pocket, and the latch pocket insertmember, the switch device being configured to be actuated by grasping ofthe grasping member and to send a corresponding signal to at least oneoperational component in response thereto.
 9. A dishwashing applianceaccording to claim 1, wherein the pull-latch further comprises one of amagnetically-operable latch, a frictionally-operable latch, and anelectro-mechanically-operable latch.
 10. A closure system adapted to beoperable between a door member and a tub portion of a dishwashingappliance, the tub portion defining an opening, and the door memberbeing adapted to pivotably engage the tub portion so as to be movablebetween an open position and a closed position with respect thereto, thedoor member covering said opening in the closed position, and defining alatch pocket having a latch aperture in communication therewith, thelatch aperture extending from the latch pocket and through the doormember to the tub portion, the latch pocket being adapted as a graspingmember for pivoting the door member from the closed position, theclosure system comprising: a latch actuation member operably engagedwith a latch device, the latch actuation member being configured to bereceived by the latch pocket, and the latch device being configured toextend through the latch aperture so as to be capable of operablyengaging the tub portion to releasably secure the door member to the tubportion when the door member is in the closed position, the securementbetween the latch device and the tub portion being releasable byselective actuation of the latch actuation member; a pull-latchconfigured to be received by the latch aperture, in place of andinterchangeably with the latch device and associated latch actuationmember, the pull-latch being capable of operably engaging the tubportion to releasably secure the door member to the tub portion when thedoor member is in the closed position, the securement between thepull-latch and the tub portion being releasable by selective exertion ofan outward force on the grasping member; and a latch pocket insertmember configured to operably engage the latch pocket so as to separatethe latch pocket from the latch aperture, when the pull-latch isreceived by the latch aperture.
 11. A closure system according to claim10, further comprising a portion of a securement mechanism operablyengaged with the latch pocket insert member, the portion of thesecurement mechanism being adapted to engage acomplementarily-configured portion of the securement mechanism operablyengaged with the door member about the latch pocket so as to secure thelatch pocket insert member to the latch pocket upon engagementtherebetween.
 12. A closure system according to claim 11, wherein one ofthe portions of the securement mechanism comprises a tab, and the otherof the portions of the engagement mechanism comprises a securing flange,the tab and securing flange being configured to interact in aninterference fit for securing the latch pocket insert member to thelatch pocket upon engagement therebetween.
 13. A closure systemaccording to claim 10, further comprising an adhesive material disposedbetween the latch pocket insert member and the door member about thelatch pocket, for securing the latch pocket insert member to the latchpocket upon engagement therebetween.
 14. A closure system according toclaim 10, further comprising at least one mechanical fastener configuredto operably engage and secure the latch pocket insert member to the doormember about the latch pocket upon engagement therebetween.
 15. Aclosure system according to claim 10, wherein the latch pocket insertmember is configured to be secured to the door member about the latchpocket by a weld therebetween.
 16. A closure system according to claim10, further comprising a proximity sensor operably engaged with thelatch pocket insert member, the proximity sensor being configured tosense grasping of the grasping member and to send a corresponding signalto at least one operational component in response thereto.
 17. A closuresystem according to claim 10, further comprising a switch deviceoperably engaged with the latch pocket insert member, the switch devicebeing configured to be actuated by grasping of the grasping member andto send a corresponding signal to at least one operational component inresponse thereto.
 18. A closure system according to claim 10, whereinthe pull-latch further comprises one of a magnetically-operable latch, africtionally-operable latch, and an electro-mechanically-operable latch.